Gaze stabilisation exercises in vestibular rehabilitation: review of the evidence and recent clinical advances

Abstract

Gaze stabilisation exercises are a mainstay of vestibular rehabilitation (VR). They are frequently prescribed to patients with vestibular hypofunction with the aim of improving the gain of the vestibular ocular reflex, improving visual acuity during head movement, and reducing the symptoms of dizziness and vertigo. This review will examine current evidence that has evaluated the efficacy of gaze stabilisation exercises on VOR gain, dynamic visual acuity and oscillopsia. In addition, recent experimental studies that have employed digital technologies and newer forms of gaze stabilisation exercises will be reviewed. The implications for future clinical practice and research in the area of VR will be discussed.

Keywords: Physical therapy; Vestibular diseases; Vestibular ocular reflex; Vestibular rehabilitation; Wearable electronic devices.